Online Master’s In Creative Writing

A creative writing degree prepares learners to communicate clearly, effectively, and creatively. Students in creative writing programs strengthen their writing, editing, and collaboration skills. Graduates with an online creative writing degree work as published authors, content writers, and editors.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), writers earn a median annual salary of $63,200. Most writing jobs require a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or communication. Although the BLS projects a 2% decline in creative writing jobs between 2019 and 2029, writers can distinguish themselves by maintaining cutting-edge skills.

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Creative writers launch their careers by writing and publishing. Many employers offering entry-level creative writing degree jobs request writing samples.

A master’s degree in creative writing appeals most to writers who want to gain more advanced writing and editing skills. Master’s degree-holders may also qualify to teach creative writing.

Because effective communication is an essential skill in the workplace, creative writers work in many professions. The most common creative writing jobs include content writer, author, and copywriter.

Salaries for creative writing jobs vary depending on job type and location. For example, successful Hollywood screenwriters generally earn more than corporate copywriters.

Companies, nonprofits, and other organizations value creative thinkers. A creative writing degree allows students to master important communication skills. Enrollees also learn how to put those skills into practice in the workplace. Learners who pursue a master’s degree in creative writing may qualify to teach other writers in a K-12 or university setting.

Many schools offer online creative writing degrees. These programs offer students maximum flexibility for shaping their education according to their individual needs. Online degrees often cost less than in-person programs. Students in an online creative writing program also benefit from accelerated course options.

Costs for creative writing degrees vary by school type and location. Public universities charge less for tuition than private colleges, but both types require students to pay technology, activity, and other fees. Many schools host online or low-residency creative writing programs. These programs often cost less than traditional programs.

Some public colleges extend in-state tuition to all online students. Applicants should check with each school under consideration about the tuition cost for online programs. Online creative writing programs reduce programmatic operating costs, so learners generally pay less as a result. The flexibility of online instruction enables some students to work while attending school.

Students in online creative writing programs need a working computer and access to a reliable internet connection. Creative writing programs do not charge lab fees.

Creative writers work in both corporate and nonprofit settings as copywriters, editors, and content marketers. Graduates with a degree in creative writing also teach, publish creative works, and serve as speechwriters for executives. Writers earn around $63,000 per year, according to the BLS. However, salaries vary depending on writers’ role and location.

For example, writers who work in the performing arts and spectator sports typically earn higher salaries than other writers. Technical writers who possess scientific knowledge and skills also earn more on average. Writers who want to work in the nonprofit sector may seek certification from the American Grant Writers’ Association.

As creative thinkers who adapt easily to workplace changes, writers often advance quickly in the corporate sector. Individuals who start their careers as copywriters may transition into positions such as creative director or content strategist.

Creative writing programs feature courses that prepare students to communicate effectively across genres and media. Enrollees learn how to write and edit written works. They also collaborate with other writers on larger projects.

A typical creative writing program hosts genre-based courses and workshops on fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and screenwriting. Students may also take specialized courses on topics like contemporary world literature, professional writing, and the publishing industry.

Most creative writing students complete a thesis to graduate. This project serves as the culmination of a student’s learning experience. The project involves writing a longer creative work in one of several genres. The list below highlights five sample courses from creative writing programs.

Creative writing students may qualify for many scholarships and writing awards. These opportunities help learners pay for tuition and fees. State and federal financial aid programs provide degree-seekers with other options for funding their education. See below for scholarships available for creative writing students at all levels.